Rachel S. Smith

Rachel S. “Rae” Smith died peacefully at the age of 96 on March 11, 2013, in Davis, where she made her home for more than 70 years. She was born Nov. 30, 1916 in Weed, at the foot of Mt. Shasta, to Italian immigrant parents.

Prior to her passing, she gave clear instructions that there be no memorial service and that her obituary not be as long as that of her husband Arthur H. “Milt” Smith, who died in 2007 after 69 years as wife and husband.

She was also preceded in death by her sisters Isabelle Scalise and Domenica “Dee” Patella, and brother Fred Scalise. She is survived by her brother John “Jug” Scalise (Shirley), sister MaryAnn Franks and nephew John Patella (Ronda); her son Richard A. Smith (Deborah), granddaughter Rachel Rowell (Eric), great-grandsons Mason and Finn, granddaughter Tonya Smith and great-granddaughter Alexandria; and her son Lloyd H. Smith (Peg), granddaughters Megan P. Smith (Sam Misner) and Caitlin A. Smith (Brock Anderson), and grandson Duncan A.J. Smith.

Respecting her wish for brevity, these thoughts about her life are offered: her love and devotion for her children, their children and families, her many years of service to the School of Veterinary Medicine at UC Davis, numerous travels with Milt, good times with their close friends and a passion for Cal Bears football.

She will always be missed, especially during family gatherings, and so fondly remembered!